A shocking act of sabotage has shrouded parts of Germany’s capital in darkness, with power outages persisting into a fourth day and affecting tens of thousands. What began as a fire in a vital power cable on Saturday morning escalated into a major crisis, initially cutting electricity to 45,000 residences and more than 2,200 businesses in southwest Berlin.
Stromnetz Berlin updated that as of 12:45 PM local time, 24,700 homes and 1,120 enterprises in Nikolassee, Zehlendorf, Wannsee, and Lichterfelde were still powerless. Repair crews battled complex technical issues, pushing back earlier projections for full restoration by Thursday.
The Vulkan Group claimed responsibility online, boasting of successfully damaging infrastructure connected to a Lichterfelde gas power station. Five hospitals in the impacted zones have restored full operations since Sunday, but residents face harsh winter weather without heat or light.
Nikolassee local Christiane reported her apartment thermometer reading a chilling 11.5°C, questioning how much cold one can endure. Berlin’s leadership has been unequivocal: Mayor Kai Wegner called it a ‘leftist terrorist attack’ in no uncertain terms, distinguishing it from petty crimes.
Federal prosecutors lead the investigation, suspecting terrorism-related offenses like arson and public service interference. Interior Senator Iris Spranger highlighted the attack’s sophistication and malice. This episode not only tests Berlin’s resilience but also amplifies concerns over targeted assaults on energy networks across the continent, as authorities vow swift justice.
